The unrest in Manipur intensified as protesters attacked the residences of key state leaders, including Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s ancestral home, following the recovery of six bodies from the Barak River. The violence stems from inter-communal clashes that have claimed 250 lives and displaced 60,000 people since May last year, driven by disputes over government quotas.
Key Developments in the Ongoing Violence:
1. Recovery of Missing Persons’ Bodies:
The bodies of six individuals, including three children, were recovered from the Barak River in Jiribam. These victims, missing since Monday from a camp for displaced persons, were sent to Silchar Medical College Hospital in Assam for post-mortem examinations.
2. Attacks on Residences:
Protesters stormed the homes of ministers Sapam Ranjan, L Susindro Singh, and Y Khemchand, and vandalized properties, including the residence of CM N Biren Singh’s son-in-law. Security forces used tear gas to disperse the mobs in various parts of Imphal.
3. Escalation of Unrest:
A mob attempted to storm CM Biren Singh’s personal residence on Saturday evening. Miscreants also set fire to at least two churches and several houses in Jiribam town, with reports of further arson emerging.
4. Government Response:
– Indefinite curfews were imposed in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching districts to curb the unrest.
– Internet and mobile data services were suspended for two days in affected districts starting Saturday evening.
– The state government has urged the Centre to review the reimposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in certain areas.
5. Call for Action:
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), representing civil society organizations in Imphal Valley, demanded military action against militants within 24 hours.
6. Political Reactions:
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi described the ongoing violence as “deeply disturbing” and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and restore peace. Mizoram’s apex student body, Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), has also expressed concern for the safety of Mizo students in Manipur.
With tensions continuing to escalate, the Manipur government is under pressure to address the crisis, which has left the region on edge for over a year.
